Noontime Discussion Series Cultural Houses: Lunch-on-Us is a weekly noontime discussion series held during the academic semesters. Each session features a different topic centered on culture, identity, community, and social issues. Students are invited to listen, learn, and enjoy a provided meal hosted by one of the campus Cultural Houses. What to know before you […]
Friday, February 6, 2026 Learning Our Shared Past: Reflections on Why History Matters for Understanding Champaign-Urbana and Beyond Zoom Webinar broadcast live from CITL’s Media Hub Podcast Studio, 12-1pm Join us for a live, interactive webinar streamed from CITL’s Media Hub Podcast Studio. The School of Social Work, in partnership with the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences […]
April 18, 202510:00am-1:00pm CST3.0 CEs for LCSW/LSW and LCPC/LPC$30 for CEs, $10 or no CEs**This training fulfills the Cultural Competency requirement for licensure in the state of Illinois** In this interactive 3-hour virtual instructor-led course, attendees will build awareness of the strengths and needs surrounding the LGBTQIA+ population, improve understanding of terminology and language, discuss […]

Undergraduate Programs
Your road to your career starts here. And you don’t need to know your final destination to begin.
As a BSW social worker, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. You might work with individuals facing challenges like disabilities, life-threatening illnesses, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, or mental health issues. You could support survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, or sexual assault. With a range of career options, you can choose roles such as case manager, counselor, advocate, or residential program staff, and find opportunities in numerous agencies and service organizations dedicated to helping those in need.

About
At the School of Social Work, we prepare the next generation of social work leaders dedicated to empowering individuals and transforming communities. Committed to social justice and equity, we tirelessly pursue meaningful change through education, advocacy, and action.
Our innovative research drives evidence-based practices that shape the future of social work. With the guidance of student-focused faculty, you’ll benefit from a balanced experience that combines dynamic classroom learning with hands-on field internships. Opportunities to engage in collaborative research and service-learning projects enable you to make a tangible impact while gaining the skills to succeed.
Graduating from our program means more than earning a degree—it means stepping into the world as a confident, compassionate professional ready to inspire change and make a difference.
Top25Social Work Programs in the United Statesusnews.com
Offering3degree programs with online options for BSW/MSW
With a90%job placement rate for MSW graduates
Our School
Everything you need to know about who we are and what we stand for. Explore a message from our dean, our rich history, strategic initiatives, employee achievements, and more—all highlighting our commitment to excellence in social work education and impact.
Our Stories
Discover inspiring stories that showcase the heart of our School—our students, faculty, and staff. Dive into recent online reports highlighting their accomplishments and explore ways to share your own story with us.
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Bachelor of Social Work
The BSW Program at Illinois
Our Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for entry-level, professional, and generalist social work practice. It also provides a pathway for advanced standing entry into a Master of Social Work (MSW) program, allowing for faster progression to higher-level roles.
Through a blend of classroom learning and immersive field education, you will gain hands-on experience working with individuals, families, groups, and communities. A BSW opens doors to a variety of career paths in areas such as healthcare, mental health, child welfare, criminal justice, and community development. Whether you’re advocating for policy change, providing direct services, or managing social programs, your BSW will equip you to make a meaningful impact in diverse social work settings.
Our program is currently ranked in the top ten undergraduate social work schools in the nation by College Factual.
Ready to apply or learn more about the admissions process? Visit our BSW Admissions page for everything you need to know about requirements, deadlines, and application steps.
Have questions about our Bachelor of Social Work program? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for quick answers to the most common questions about admissions, program options, and more.
The BSW program prepares students for entry-level, generalist social work practice. Earning a BSW opens the door to diverse career opportunities and provides a strong foundation for advanced graduate study in social work.
This online program enables community college graduates and transfer students with junior standing to earn a Bachelor of Social Work degree entirely online, with in-person internships in their local community.
The Social Work Minor allows you to combine your primary field of study with social welfare and professional social work. It focuses on applying social work theories, policies, and research to address key social issues.
A hands-on internship designed for you
Your internship lets you apply classroom learning in community agencies, giving you hands-on experience in the profession. It offers opportunities to practice generalist social work with diverse populations, working with individuals, groups, families, and organizations.
BSW Field Education
Learn More
If you want to learn more about our BSW program options or get in touch with your support team, reach out to us:
Ready to learn more? Request more information about our Bachelor of Social Work program to explore how you can drive positive change in the world.
Join us for an interactive session, available both online and in-person, to connect directly with our experienced admissions staff. Ask questions and discover the full range of program options we offer.
Need help navigating the BSW program? Our dedicated undergrad student staff are here to support you—reach out to get personalized guidance and answers to all your questions.

Apply
At Illinois, our students make their dreams possible, rise to any occasion, and help shape the world. As a social worker, you’ll join one of the fastest growing professions in the country. Learn about our degree program options and what it takes to become an agent of change.
Bachelor of Social Work Program
Learn more about our BSW program and the three avenues in which you can apply.
Master of Social Work Program
Learn more about our MSW program enrollment options.
Post-MSW PEL Program
Learn about our post-MSW program for those seeking an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) for School Social Work endorsement.
Doctoral (PhD) Program
Explore our fully-funded PhD program including teaching and research opportunities.

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